Gatlinburg is considered the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains located in the Eastern part of Tennessee. Whether you are looking for a weekend getaway or a weeklong vacation, Gatlinburg is full of adventure and relaxation no matter the season.
Spring/Summer/Fall
Spring and Summer and Fall bring about many adventures in Gatlinburg.
Hiking , Biking and Camping
There is over 800 miles of hiking trails in the Smoky Mountains waiting to be explored with some of the trail heads starting right in Gatlinburg. Backpacking will allow you to see nature at its finest with bears roaming, hawks flying overhead and other critters running around you as you adventure down the trails.
Don’t forget to stop and take in the breathtaking scene at the waterfalls. If you are feeling extra exploratory, spend the night at one of the many campgrounds. However, if camping is not on your list, there are many great outdoor cabin and condos available as well.
There is an amazing 11 mile loop accessible via bicycles that exposes you to the history and scenery the area is known for. With the loop closed to motorists on certain days, it ensures you a leisurely bike ride within the Great Smoky Mountains.
Birding and Fishing
The diverse elevation and topography makes Gatlinburg idea for the avid birder. With over 240 species being noted to be found in the Smokies, you are bound to enjoy the day looking through your binoculars trying to identify the great-horned owl or the red-breasted nuthatch. With the Smokies being along the annual migration trail, don’t be surprised to see a species from the neo-tropics.
Horseback Riding and Whitewater Rafting
Horseback riding allows you to let the horse do the work while you relax and enjoy the breathtaking scenery. While whitewater rafting allows you to get your heart pumping in class-III and class-IV rapids.
Winter
Skiing and Tubing
Don’t think once the fall ends and the leaves drop you have to wait till Spring to return to Gatlinburg. Gatlinburg is filled with winter sporting activities such as skiing and snowboarding. Snow tubing is a great family activity for all to enjoy as you go speeding down the mountain on a tube.
No matter the activity you are looking for or the time of year you wish to visit, Gatlinburg has something to offer everyone. Once you experience it, you will be visiting the rest of your life.
